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NFL's biggest surprises, disappointments and MVP through first 4 weeks of season

The early 2026 NFL season has already delivered unexpected twists, with the Las Vegas Raiders emerging as one of the league’s biggest surprises. After securing the No.

1 overall draft pick in 2025 by finishing last, the team has transformed under rookie head coach Klint Kubiak, posting a 3-1 record through four weeks. Their defense has shown marked improvement, while quarterback Kirk Cousins has thrived, throwing multiple touchdown passes in every game despite missing key weapons like Brock Bowers for two of them.

The Raiders’ competitive effort against the Kansas City Chiefs—even in a loss—suggests they could remain a playoff threat, with the flexibility to develop rookie running back Fernando Mendoza without immediate pressure to produce. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons have also defied expectations, reviving their season with quarterback Michael Penix Jr.

leading a revitalized offense. Their dynamic playmaking, highlighted by the electrifying speed of running back Bijan Robinson, has shifted expectations from a potential playoff miss to a potential contender after a shaky start.

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